Hamas ready to return to Egypt ceasefire talks

Hamas has reportedly said they will return to Egypt-mediated indirect talks with Israel to discuss a long-term ceasefire.

“Any return to negotiations will depend on if the resistance feels that Israel is willing to meet our demands,” Hamas said in a statement, according to Israeli news site Ynet. “We will not agree to negotiate just for the sake of negotiation,” the statement read.

A key condition on any deal for Hamas is Israel bringing an end to the punishing eight-year long siege of Gaza. Israel has said they must have their security needs met in any potential deal and have pushed for the demilitarisation of Gaza, something Hamas has flatly rejected.